Krik Cousin is now playing his 13th NFL Season. However, 2025 brought a major twist to his football career, as for the first time in over a decade, he won’t be on the field but on the bench as a backup quarterback. After signing a four-year, USD 160 million contract with the Atlanta Falcons in 2024, the team unexpectedly drafted Michael Penix Jr. in the first round, placing Krik in a supporting role. While it is turning out to be a humbling transition for the veteran, it has brought back memories of his experience in 2014 with Washington.
While headlines focus on the Falcons’ quarterback controversy, there is someone behind the scenes who has been his rock and a constant support. Keeping Krik grounded during these times is his family, especially the unwavering support of his wife, Julie Hampton Cousins. The NFL wife, Julie, hails from Georgia and has stood by Kirk’s side since the early days of his career, helping him navigate the highs and lows of the NFL while carving out a meaningful life beyond the field.
Julie Hampton’s journey from Alpharetta to the NFL limelight
Julie Hampton was born in 1989 in Alpharetta, Georgia. She was raised in a close-knit family with two older brothers, Scott and Steve. She attended the University of Georgia, keeping her roots planted firmly in her home state. Her love for family is evident even now, as she prioritises the happiness of their little home, keeping her husband, Krik Cousins, grounded through every high and low. However, before we dive into her journey as a wife, let us take a look at how the Georgian sweetheart met Krik.
Julie Hampton and Kirk Cousins’ adorable love story
Shortly after Kirk Cousins was drafted into the NFL by the Washington Redskins in 2012, he crossed paths with Julie Hampton. The two were introduced through mutual friends, and their connection was instant. Over time, Julie and Krik found solace in each other, and after 18 months, Krik got down on one knee in a fittingly memorable way on the balcony of the U.S. Capitol. They tied the knot in June 2014. Recalling how he proposed, Krik once told The Washington Post:
“I went down on a knee before it got too sappy, before it got too awkward. I don’t remember exactly what she said, but she said yes. That’s all I needed to hear.”
Julie Hampton and Kirk Cousins’ life as parents and a family
Julie Hampton and Kirk Cousins have built a beautiful life for themselves over the years. The couple welcomed two adorable sons, Cooper and Turner, in 2017 and 2019, respectively, along with their Labradoodle, Abe. Despite the demanding nature of life in the NFL, which saw the family move from Washington to Minnesota and now Atlanta, Julie has remained a grounding presence, often spotted cheering Kirk on from the stands.
Their partnership, however, goes well beyond the personal relationship into philanthropy and business. They have launched the Julie & Kirk Cousins Foundation, which supports organisations such as Bethany Christian Services, Boys and Girls Clubs of America, and International Justice Mission. Their shared objective reflects their deep commitment to service and giving back, while also providing Kirk with something to hold onto beyond the field.
In 2022, the couple also made another business decision. Krik and Julie purchased the Clearbrook Golf Course in Saugatuck, Michigan, a move that combined their entrepreneurial spirit with their love of community. Kirk has, on several occasions, expressed his gratitude to his wife, Julie, for helping him stay grounded.
Kirk Cousins’ journey from a Rookie to a well-respected veteran
Many dream of making it into the sports world. However, only a handful make it to the top. Krik Cousins is one such man, and his NFL journey has been marked by resilience, dedication and immense hard work. He was a surprising fourth-round selection by Washington in 2012, taken in the same draft as Robert Griffin III, the team’s presumed franchise quarterback. While many saw Kirk as a backup plan, he slowly emerged as a reliable starter.
Eventually, Kirk Cousins took over the reins in Washington before signing with the Minnesota Vikings in 2018. The star QB stayed with Minnesota for seven years, becoming the league’s most consistent quarterback, even earning Pro Bowl recognition. And while he made a name for himself on the field, his wife, Julie, stood by him every step of the way, helping manage their household and raising their children while supporting his demanding career.
Kirk Cousins and Julie Hampton’s new chapter in Atlanta
In 2024, the Cousins’ family returned to Julie’s home state of Georgia after Kirk signed with the Atlanta Falcons as a free agent. The move was seen as a full-circle moment for the couple, both professionally and personally. However, it came with an unexpected twist. Despite the high-profile contract, Atlanta’s decision to draft Michael Penix Jr. shifted Kirk into a mentorship role, making him a very expensive backup.
The change in the quarterback was also documented in the Netflix series, Quarterback, which featured the behind-the-scenes glimpses of Kirk and Julie’s life off the field. The show highlighted Julie’s role not only as a wife and mother but as a critical source of strength and support during a period of uncertainty.
Julie Hampton is more than just an NFL wife
Julie’s contribution to Kirk Cousins’ life and their family goes beyond just being the wife of an NFL player. Beyond the limelight, she has been the biggest strength and support for Kirk, not just keeping him going but also providing him a warm home and a loving, safe space to fall back on when things get hard.
What are your thoughts on Kirk Cousins and Julie Hampton’s journey together? Let us know.
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